Pentax Q

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Verdict

No one can deny that the Pentax Q adds a little colour to the market. Its main talking points will always be its size, for reasons good and bad. The current ‘smallest interchangeable-lens camera’ uses a much smaller sensor, but this is central to its being – compact size and compact lenses (and the consequent distortion and lack of control over depth of field).

Given its build quality and price, the Pentax Q is aimed squarely at the enthusiast photographer, but such a user demands high image quality. In this regard, they will be more satisfied with cameras like the Sony NEX-C3.

Nonetheless, Pentax may well be the first to create a truly compact system, with the larger-sensor CSCs bogged down by bulky lenses. The opening salvo from a new system is always exciting and I look forward to seeing where it will go, especially in relation to a lens adapter and future Q-mount lenses. For now, though, the Pentax Q will afford its users a smile, some fun and a compact companion, if little else.

Pentax Q – Key points

Pop-up flash

Handily, the pop-up flash operates in either its closed or elevated position. Its GN 5.6 @ ISO 125 output is suitable for close-range subjects

Info button

Here the quick menu is accessed, through which several key shooting settings can be adjusted, such as colour mode, metering, Shake Reduction and aspect ratio

Multiple exposure

Of the several handy shooting modes, a multiple exposure of up to nine frames can be recorded, with the choice for auto EV adjustment.

ND filter

A built-in ND filter offers an extra 2 stops of light, meaning using wide apertures in sunlight or a slower shutter speed for blurred movement is possible.

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